POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – The New York State Police are warning residents across the Hudson Valley about an active phone scam in which callers are posing as debt collectors in an attempt to steal large sums of cash. Authorities say the scam is targeting individuals in the Troop K region, which covers Dutchess, Putnam, Columbia, and Westchester counties.
How the Scam Works
According to investigators, scammers have been contacting victims by phone, falsely claiming they owe outstanding debts. To make their story sound urgent, the callers pressure victims to withdraw large amounts of cash from their bank accounts.
Once the money is withdrawn, victims are instructed to hand the cash over to a so-called “courier” who arrives in person. Police say this tactic is designed to instill fear and urgency, leaving victims little time to question the demand.
Officials emphasize that this is not a legitimate practice and is a criminal scheme to defraud residents.
Police: Don’t Share Personal Information
State Police are urging community members to protect themselves by following several key precautions:
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Do not provide personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, or passwords over the phone or email.
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Never withdraw cash or hand money to a courier at the instruction of a caller. No government agency or reputable business conducts transactions in this manner.
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Take time to verify any financial request by independently contacting the company, bank, or agency in question before taking action.
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Report suspicious calls or messages immediately to law enforcement.
“These scams rely on creating panic and urgency,” the State Police advisory said. “Take a moment to verify before taking action. Protect yourself and your loved ones.”
Community Awareness is Key
Authorities stress that public awareness plays a critical role in preventing scams. Often, scammers target older adults or vulnerable individuals who may be more likely to comply with intimidating instructions.
Police are urging residents to talk with family, friends, and neighbors—especially seniors—about the scam, so more people are aware of the warning signs.
Previous Scam Patterns
Phone scams are not new to the Hudson Valley. In recent years, similar schemes have surfaced involving callers pretending to be IRS agents, utility company representatives, or even law enforcement officers demanding bail money. While the details vary, the core tactic remains the same: create a sense of urgency and pressure victims into handing over money quickly.
Officials note that the latest “courier scam” is particularly alarming because it escalates beyond phone calls by sending someone directly to a victim’s home to collect cash.
Law Enforcement Message
The State Police reiterated that no legitimate agency or business will ever send a courier to collect money in person or demand immediate payment over the phone. Any such request should be treated as fraudulent.
Residents who believe they have been targeted—or who may have already handed over money—are urged to contact the New York State Police immediately to file a report.
How to Report a Scam
Victims or those receiving suspicious calls should report the activity directly to State Police. Providing details such as caller ID numbers, the content of the call, or descriptions of couriers may assist investigators.
Community members can also help by sharing the scam alert widely on social media and in neighborhood groups.
Bottom Line: If someone calls demanding money and threatens to send a courier, it’s a scam. Hang up, verify, and report it.
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